97ZOK Teacher of the Week

I believe if you can get a child to really fall in love with learning, there's almost nothing they can't achieve. There's a lot of that in this teacher's 20+ year career.

Loving the idea of learning something new every day is not the easiest thing to do with young students. For 20 years and counting, one Stateline area teacher has been giving the youngest students one of life's greatest gifts.

That gift is a love for learning.

Today, we honor a Machesney Park, Illinois kindergarten teacher for continually going above and beyond for so many families.

97ZOK's NEW Teacher of the Week

Sarah Bare from Parker Center School in Machesney Park

Sarah was nominated for this honor by Katie Olivarez, the mother of one of Sarah's school-loving students, Katie writes,

I just wanted to take a second and just share what a wonderful teacher my child has been placed with this year for Kindergarten. As parents, we're so nervous with everything going on and this being our child’s first school experience. Ms. Sarah has been so supportive, communicative, and just overall amazing. She takes SUCH great care of our daughter and our daughter—who is very much a mama’s girl—LOVES coming to school because of her. I don’t think Ms. Sarah simply “does her job”—she goes above and beyond. She has checked on our daughter when she’s been out sick, even on weekends, and is quick to answer questions no matter the day or time. Our child has thrived and is academically doing so well. But knowing she is with Ms. Sarah who takes the time to do “extras” just makes us feel so appreciative. We love that she teaches more than just academics—she teaches and reflects kindness. You always worry when the first “baby” starts anything new and full-time school was a big step for us—and it has been truly a great experience with her teacher. Exceptional teachers need to be recognized and appreciated—especially in today’s world. We are so thankful for her!

As 97ZOK's Teacher Of The Week, Sarah Bare was surprised with a beautiful floral arrangement from Broadway Florist and a delicious cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Nominate your favorite teacher by clicking HERE.